Question

Which of the following is most stable?
(a) Sn²⁺ (b) Ge²⁺
(c) Si²⁺ (d) Pb²⁺

Answer 1

I think Pb(lead) is the answer.

Answer 2

The most stable among the following is (d) Pb²⁺

- All of these elements belong to the 14 group of the periodic table, i.e., the Carbon family

- The sequence of these elements from top to bottom is : Si, Ge, Sn, Pb

- The stability of +2 oxidation state increases down the group

- This is due to the inert pair effect

- Thus, the maximum stable is Pb²⁺ among the following as it lies lowest in the group

- Hence, the correct option is (d)